Just wondered what others think about massages after breast cancer surgery. I've always enjoyed long massages when in Bali or Thailand and also reflexology. Some healers say not to have massages after a tumour, but the doctors don't seem to be worried. I'm off to Bali in 8 days and don't think I could bear not to have one of their wonderful massages. What do others think?
Hi Serenity - I didn't have chemo or radiation, just Femara to shrink the lump, but it is almost 2 years since surgery, and I have missed my massages, especially to relieve neck and back tension, so feel better now about having them. Thanks for your reply
Thanks Leonie, I think I will just stick to back massages and reflexology. Some people seem to think if you have had a tumour you shouldn't have massages as they can make bad cells spread. I believe that I am fully healed and will not get another tumour (especially with Femara getting rid of oestrogen for 5 years).
I have been have Bowen and Emmett massage throughout my chemo and have found it to be beneficial. My therapist wont massage 48 hours before or after chemo. I chose these two therapies as they are pressure point and dont involve deep muscle massage. I feel they have helped me alot particularly in relieving muscle tension post surgery and post chemo and the "flushing". My therapist has several BC patients so she is very empathetic.
In Brisbane the Kim Walters Foundation at the Wesley offers access to massage. There may be something similar to where you live.
I hope you find someone.
I have been have Bowen and Emmett massage throughout my chemo and have found it to be beneficial. My therapist wont massage 48 hours before or after chemo. I chose these two therapies as they are pressure point and dont involve deep muscle massage. I feel they have helped me alot particularly in relieving muscle tension post surgery and post chemo and the "flushing". My therapist has several BC patients so she is very empathetic.
In Brisbane the Kim Walters Foundation at the Wesley offers access to massage. There may be something similar to where you live.
I hope you find someone.
I have found the benefits to be very rewarding. You need to just let the "operator" know of your bc site and that they need to massage your affected arm upwards not downwards. Enjoy. XLeonie
